The Health Care Consumers’ Association (HCCA) is a health promotion organisation that provides a voice for consumers on local health issues and provides opportunities for health care consumers in the ACT to participate in all levels of health service planning, policy development and decision making. HCCA works to improve the quality and availability of health services, supports consumers to identify shared priorities about health, and represents these views to the ACT Government.

HCCA is the peak consumer organisation in the ACT and involves consumers through:

• consumer representation • consultations • training in health rights and navigating the health system • community forums • information sessions about health services• advocating for issues of concern to consumers• works for the improvement of quality and safety of health services

HCCA works with the ACT community to advocate for health and equity in health. We recognise that good health is critical for social and personal development and good quality of life. As a health promotion organisation, we work within a framework that is based on the social determinants of health, including economic, social, cultural, environmental and political factors. We advocate for policies that enhance equal opportunities and resources so that all people can achieve their fullest health potential.

We work closely with our members and the community, the ACT Government, service providers, media and nongovernment and voluntary organisations to provide coordinated action in improving health for our community and reorient health services towards health promotion to achieve our vision and mission.